Lost Hunter Found In Swanton Last Night

SWANTON -- A lost hunter was found cold but safe Saturday night with the help of a Border Patrol thermal-imaging device.

State Police in St. Albans were called to the wildlife refuge on Tabor Hill Road in Swanton at about 4:30 p.m. Christina Johnson said she had heard someone yelling for help along with two possible gunshots indicating someone was in need of help.

Police spoke with Robert Britch, 29, who told police he had been hunting in the area with his father, Robert Britch, 53 of Highgate. The younger Birch said he thought the person calling for help may have been his father.

The elder Britch was located within minutes with the use of a Border Patrol helicopter equipped with thermal imaging. Initial rescue efforts were hampered by difficult terrain that included beaver ponds and marshy areas, and attempt to reach Birch by Swanton Fire Department failed. Ultimately, Fish and Wildlife Game Wardens reached Britch and brought him to safety.

Britch complained of being cold but declined further medical attention from Mississqoui Rescue.